Orlando, FL -- Vice President Joe Biden and Secretary of Education Arne Duncan today visited Jackson Middle School in Orlando, highlighting how the Recovery Act is saving tens of thousands of teaching jobs and providing the resources necessary to prepare American students for the 21st century economy.

Washington, D.C.  The NAMM Foundation announced that it hosted a live, public teleconference today with U.S. Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan to discuss his recent letter sent to school and education community leaders outlining the importance of the arts as a core academic subject in U.S.

Today's report is another wake-up call that our students are treading the waters of academic achievement while other countries' students are swimming faster and farther. Our students have stagnated educationally, putting our long-term economic security at risk.

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and civil rights leader Al Sharpton will join Education Secretary Arne Duncan on a tour of four cities to highlight the Obama administration's efforts to reform public education, spur innovation and discuss challenges facing America's school systems.

Providing targeted support to end the high school dropout crisis and support Alaska's rural communities, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan today announced plans to award a three-year, $1.2 million grant to support Project Puqigtut in Anchorage public schools.

I am deeply saddened by the news of Eunice Kennedy Shriver's passing. Eunice--inspired by her sister Rosemary--devoted most of her adult life to helping young people with disabilities reach their highest potential. Eunice understood that every young person can achieve when given a chance.